Airport Crisis: How Psychosis Led to Diagnosis

Rosie van Amerongen experienced a severe psychotic episode at Stansted Airport, driven by auditory hallucinations that convinced her of imminent danger. This event led to her arrest and subsequent sectioning, where she was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. She describes the intense highs and lows of the condition, including a period of hypomania that bordered on delusion after a severe depressive phase. Her journey highlights the difficulty of recognizing early symptoms and the profound impact of diagnosis and treatment. Van Amerongen emphasizes that proper medication, particularly mood stabilizers and antipsychotics, has been crucial for her stability, with sleep management being paramount. Peer support from Bipolar UK has also been vital in connecting her with others who understand her experiences. She aims to combat the shame and misunderstanding often associated with bipolar disorder, advocating for greater awareness and acceptance, especially among young women. The condition, which affects an estimated 1 in 50 people in the UK, involves significant mood and energy level fluctuations. Van Amerongen's experience underscores the isolating nature of stigma but also the empowering effect of openly sharing her story to help others feel less alone.